BIRMINGHAM window ledge hero Charlie Wilcox, who received the George Cross after he rescued a terrified work-mate, has died at the age of 86.

Mr Wilcox, of Tennal Road, Harborne, was a council painter and decorator when he received the award for gallantry for his help in saving 21-year-old Leslie Burrows in August 1949.

Mr Wilcox, was painting a Birmingham Corporation building in Margaret Street. Mr Burrows, a less experienced colleague, climbed to a third-floor window ledge, then froze in panic when he found there was no handhold to keep his balance.

Mr Wilcox remained calm and supported the young worker until the fire brigade's arrival 45 minutes later.

He was awarded the Edward Medal (Mines) for his act of bravery, which was exchanged for the George Cross in 1973.

In World War II Mr Wilcox served with the First Battalion, the South Staffordshire Regiment in Palestine and the Western Desert as a machine-gunner.